At Parish Day School, our students are encouraged to explore and learn through play. This philosophy of learning through play supports the research on how children best grow and learn. It can be seen in every detail of our school day.
One of our favorite places to explore is outside on our playground. It is not uncommon for our students to find caterpillars, praying mantises, or beetles outside. Teachers are quick to find buckets, magnifying glasses or bug barns to continue the students' investigation. Through this exploration, children learn about nature and their world. Children use all their senses to explore. They look and listen to observe what is happening around them. They touch and smell the scents of outside. This gives the teachers opportunity to share about God's creation.
Nature exploration is fundamental to our preschoolers development. Exploring nature encourages curiosity, discovery and a sense of wonder. Teachers plan activities that encourage a child's appreciation of the natural world. The children love to participate in nature walks or listening walks to point out the changes in the seasons.
As we reconnect with one another and get into our new school year routines, we are comforted by our curriculum of hands on learning and outdoor play. We love seeing our students run, jump, dig and climb as they discover new things each day. Even the smallest discovery is so exciting to our little learners.
From the Book of Common Prayer
For Joy in God’s Creation
O heavenly Father, who hast filled the world with beauty.
Open our eyes to behold thy gracious hand in all thy works;
that, rejoicing in thy whole creation, we may learn to serve
thee with gladness; for the sake of him through whom all
things were made, thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen